Terra cotta pots are one of the most versatile and classic garden planters available. Along with looking great plain, terra cotta pots are often used in a variety of craft project. A fun project you can do using terra cotta pots is to create a birdbath. Here are instructions on how to make a birdbath using terra cotta pots.
To make a basic birdbath from terra cotta pots all you will need is a large terra cotta pot, a large terra cotta saucer and some glue. Choose waterproof glue like Plumber’s Goop or silicone so that it will hold up to the weather. You can find both of these glues in the plumbing section of just about any department store.
Once you have gathered together all of your materials, start by turning your terra cotta pot upside down on your work surface. Next, apply a generous amount of glue to the bottom of the pot, focusing mainly around the edges. Next, set the large saucer on top of the pot face up so it creates the bowl section of your birdbath. Allow the glue to try thoroughly.
Once the glue is dry you can paint your birdbath using acrylic paints from your local craft store. Feel free to get as creative as you want. You can paint individual pictures, solid color, or even an intricate mural. Do not put paint inside the center of the bowl where the water will go. Once the paint has dried, use a spray on sealer to seal it against the elements and then set your birdbath outside and add water to it to enjoy.
You can get more creative with your terra cotta birdbath by using different styles of pots for the base. An urn-shaped pot makes a lovely base for a birdbath. Or, to make a tall birdbath, purchase several pots and an additional large saucer. Turn the first saucer upside down on your work surface and then glue the first pot upside down on the saucer, then the next pot right side up on top of the first pot, then the third pot upside down on top of the second pot. Continue in this fashion until your birdbath is as tall as you want it and then glue the second saucer on top to create the bowl. Having the additional saucer at the bottom of your tall birdbath will help to give it stability so it won’t tip over as easily due to the extra height.
In addition to painting terra cotta birdbaths you can also decorate them with a mosaic by gluing bits of glass, tile or stone to them, allowing the glue to dry and then grouting them in the color of your choosing. Use your imagination and you will likely come up with many more creative ideas on how to decorate your terra cotta birdbath to make it a one of a kind piece of yard art that you can enjoy all summer long. To help your terra cotta birdbath last longer bring it inside during the cold months so that the pots don’t crack from freezing.
